Issues

Campaign themes

2012

Excerpt: "Jennifer will work with local employers to keep jobs and investment tied to the local communities, and will work through her constituent office to make sure that local businesses have a clear line of communication to every agency in the state."

Education

Excerpt: "In Springfield, Jennifer will fight to preserve early childhood learning programs that give local students a head start on academic success. She will also ensure that schools are equipped to prepare students for college and to give workers the skills they need to find careers in the modern workplace."

Ethics

Excerpt: "Missteps like the controversial legislative scholarship program have eroded public confidence in the General Assembly. Jennifer believes that the best way to hold elected officials accountable is to ensure that state institutions maintain the highest level of transparency. As a state senator, Jennifer will study the budget to oppose the sort of favor-trading and waste which voters have grown tired of in Springfield."

The Budget

Excerpt: "During her five years as Regional Superintendent, Jennifer reduced the budget every year while maintaining services. She’ll bring that same sound fiscal policy to Springfield, where for too long legislators have failed to fulfill their financial obligations and passed budgets that came more from politics than good sense."

Elections

2012

Bertino-Tarrant is running in the 2012 election for Illinois State Senate District 49. Bertino-Tarrant was unopposed in the Democratic primary on March 20, 2012. Incumbent William "Sam" McCann is not running for re-election in District 49, instead he is running in District 50. Bertino-Tarrant will face Republican Garrett Peck in the general election on November 6, 2012.[2][3]

Personal

Bertino-Tarrant has a husband, Mike, and two children, Elise and Zackry.[4]